INTRODUCTION

Heat transfer is encountered in virtually all engineering applications. There exist many methods to analyze heat transfer systems, including mathematical models, theoretical models, and experiments. One such theoretical method is the Finite Element Method; this website serves as a resource to introduce FEM as an analytical tool which may be used to solve myriad heat transfer problems in mechanical engineering. Algor - an FEM computational tool - is introduced for heat transfer analysis and similarities between heat transfer and structural analysis using Algor are explored. FEM is also contrasted with the method of finite differences and both of these are compared with experimental data to express their respective advantages and validity.

 

WHAT IS FEM?

The finite element method is appropriately named as it discretizes (divides) an object into a finite number of very small elements and analyzes them individually. Then these results are compiled so that the overall response of the object may be determined. A more in-depth discussion concerning the theory behind the finite element method may be found on Dr. C. Shet's FEM course webpage. This method is extremely tedious by hand; however, it is a very practical solution method given today's computer technology. This method makes possible the analysis of complex geometries and multi-material objects, which before the 1950's were far more difficult to analyze.

FEM'S VERSATILITY

FEM may be applied towards myriad types of analysis: static loading, fluid flow, electrostatic currents, transient and steady-state thermal stress, and others. The fundamental concept behind each application is the same as described above. Further, user-friendly software makes it very simple to perform different analyses to the same object concurrently. This webpage is designed specifically for steady-state two-dimensional heat transfer using the finite element method, with an example using Algor. Heat transfer occurs between two mediums whenever there is a temperature differential. A very thorough explanation of heat transfer analysis may be found on the Thermal Fluids I and Thermal Fluids II course webpages.

FEM IN TODAY'S INDUSTRY

Several software programs are available that utilize the FEM theory; common ones include Algor and Abaqus. With the speed and accuracy of FEM today, industry frequently uses this method for design analysis. One such corporation that specializes in material testing using FEM is Matco Associates, Inc. Several others can be found on Google's search engine using the search term "Finite Element Analysis".

FEM AND HEAT TRANSFER ANALYSIS

Please click on the links below to view the presentations and material covered in class. This information compares

LEARNING THROUGH TEACHING

This website is hosted by Michelle Blunt and Brian Coldwell as part of the Learning Through Teaching Project at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. This project involves researching and learning a topic independently; then teaching that material to peers. By teaching the material, great educational experience is gained. By understanding how other classmates think and learn, the student teachers learn even more themselves. For more information on this project and its philosophy, please view Dr. Shih's website. The material on this page is presented with the intent to aid others in more fully understanding FEM and its applications to heat transfer. The authors hope that you may learn as much from this resource as they did preparing and presenting it.
To see our individual statements concerning our experience with this project, please click the appropriate links below:

 

Please send any inquires regarding this site to bcoldwell@eng.fsu.edu.